"I had scarcely begun to speak when the Holy Spirit came down on them in the same way as it came down on us at the beginning." (Acts 11: 15)
Peter was amazed that the Holy Spirit was also given to the gentiles.
The Spirit blows where He wills.
We must therefore respect the gifts of the Holy Spirit across Christendom. God's extraordinary providence is always as work so that as many as possible will be saved.
"Father, through the obedience of Jesus, your servant and your Son, you raised a fallen world. Free us from sin and bring us the joy that lasts forever….." (Prayer at Mass)
Christ obeyed unto death.
Obedience of faith
Trust and obey.
Christ is Lord and King, yet he humbled himself as a servant and obeyed unto death.
"A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it abundantly." (John 10: 10)
You are either with Christ or you are with the thief. There is no middle course.
If you are with the thief, know his agenda: theft, slaughter and destruction. Whatever he gives today in money, power, prestige and fun would not last. He would reach out and take much more back, leaving behind a trail of destruction. After he finishes his work, your life would be shattered and would need rebuilding. Jesus Christ, the good Shepherd is standing by to help.
If you choose Christ, then the good Shepherd promises abundant life: peace, joy, contentment under any circumstances.
"Beloved: If you are patient when you suffer for doing what is good, this is a grace before God. For this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in his footsteps." (1 Peter 2: 20 – 21)
Patience, submission and self- abandonment: What a glorious trio.
"I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come. " (Psalm 23: 6)
What would I do if I know for certain that this promise is also for me?
I would say: "Thank you Father. When will this promise be fulfilled?'
"Only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life; and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come." (Psalm 23: 6)
Yes, only goodness and kindness follow me all the days of my life. Now what will I do if I know for certain that this is absolutely true? I will wonder in what sense is this true. I will pray for light to understand the spiritual meaning of this truth. Then I will trust God's providence completely in everything.
"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. | in verdant pastures he gives me repose; besides restful waters he leads me; he refreshes my soul." (Psalm 23: 1-2)
The Lord is indeed my Shepherd. I trust Him; therefore I shall not lack:
O how good you are O Jesus!